ILLINOIS
Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL)
Illinois state funding for security upgrades to nonprofits at high risk of targeted threats.
$450K
Up to $150K per site, max 3 sites
State
Funded by IEMA-OHS
What Is NSGP-IL?
The Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL) provides state funding for security upgrades to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in Illinois that are at high risk of threats, attacks, or acts of terrorism. It is administered by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security.
NSGP-IL is separate from the federal NSGP. Illinois organizations can apply for both. Up to 3 sites can be included in a single application at $150,000 per site.
Key differences from federal NSGP: organizations providing primarily medical or mental health services are excluded. Proposed projects cannot overlap with any previous federal or state grant.
Who Is Eligible?
- 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Illinois
- Houses of worship, religious schools, faith-based and cultural nonprofits
- Must occupy the facility (owned or leased) at the time of application
- Documented credible risk of terrorist or bias-motivated attack
- Compliance with Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) application requirements
What Can the Funding Be Used For?
Allowable expenses under the Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL) typically include:
Physical Security Equipment
Barriers, fencing, lighting, reinforced doors and windows, bollards
Surveillance and Monitoring
CCTV cameras, intrusion detection systems
Access Control
Card readers, electronic locks, key fob systems
Communication Systems
Emergency communications and mass notification tools
Security Training
Active threat training, emergency preparedness exercises, drills
Contract Security Personnel
Professional security services (with restrictions)
Cybersecurity Improvements
Firewalls, secure networks, data protection, cybersecurity training
Application Process for the NSGP-IL
The NSGP-IL is competitive. Applications are submitted to Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA), which reviews and scores them against state and federal criteria. A strong application requires a documented threat case, a vulnerability assessment, and a written Investment Justification.
The period of performance for awarded grants typically runs one to three years. We track deadlines for Illinois and advise on timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers about applying for the Illinois Not-for-Profit Security Grant Program (NSGP-IL).
Who can apply for the NSGP-IL?
Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofits located in Illinois that can document a credible risk of terrorist or bias-motivated attack. This typically includes houses of worship, religious schools, faith-based and cultural organizations whose mission, ideology, or community make them targets. The nonprofit must occupy the facility (owned or leased) at the time of application.
How much funding can an Illinois nonprofit receive through NSGP-IL?
Award amounts are set per cycle by IEMA. Most recent guidance: up to $150,000 per site, with a maximum of $450,000 for organizations applying for up to three sites. The program is reimbursement-based, so plan for a 30–90 day cash-flow gap between vendor payment and IEMA reimbursement.
Who administers the NSGP-IL and where do I find the official source?
The NSGP-IL is administered by Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) — the official source for solicitations, NOFOs, and current-cycle deadlines is https://iema.illinois.gov/. The agency publishes annual scoring rubrics and supplemental guidance there. Working from the official source (rather than third-party summaries) is the best way to avoid disqualification on technicalities.
When does the Illinois application window open and close?
Application periods have historically opened in late Q2 - early Q3. Application windows historically run 30-60 days from solicitation publication. Subscribe to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announcement list or set a calendar reminder near the historical cycle dates so you are not caught short on document preparation, which typically takes 4-6 weeks for a competitive submission.
What can NSGP-IL funds be used for?
Allowable expenses generally include physical security equipment (cameras, locks, barriers, access control, ballistic-resistant materials), surveillance and monitoring systems, security training for staff and volunteers, and planning costs. Always cross-check the current cycle's NOFO for the precise allowable-expense list — categories can shift between cycles.
Does the NSGP-IL require a match or cost share?
No. NSGP-IL does not impart a match requirement.